Hospitality Today Spring 2017 | Page 26

26
| Hospitality Today | Spring 2017
these countries having an average of £ 800 and £ 713 to spend in British shops respectively , compared to the overall budget of £ 453 set aside by international visitors on average .
High tech attracts younger guests
Younger UK consumers are more interested in a high-tech approach to the leisure sector than older consumers . Over a third ( 36 %) of 18-34s would be more likely to use a bar that invested in automated drinks dispensing , compared to just 6 % of the 55 and overs . Younger consumers are also more comfortable with automated ordering in restaurants , with 43 % of 18-34s saying they would be more likely to use such a restaurant compared to 14 % of the 55 and overs .
Mike Saul adds : “ Offering guests tailored experiences will be key to success for operators in the UK hospitality and leisure sector in 2017 .”
Incoming numbers and spend up , say BHA
Figures from the latest British Hospitality Association ( BHA ) Travel Monitor show spend in the UK by visitors from overseas was up 6 % year on year for the month of February .
The data from the BHA Travel Monitor also revealed overseas holiday visitor numbers increased by 11 % year on year in February ; continuing the strong growth seen at the end of 2016 .
The results are a likely reflection of the fall in the value of the pound , encouraging overseas travellers to spend more once they ’ re in the UK .
Ufi Ibrahim
BHA warns of ‘ perfect storm ’ on costs
BHA chief executive Ufi Ibraham warned : “ It is positive to see that overseas visitors are spending while here , but this is most likely fuelled by a good exchange rate . The hospitality and tourism industry will not be able to rely on the continuation of this growth once the pound starts to pick up and as such needs the government to recognise the concerns of the industry .